Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the tray in the preheated oven.

Bake for:

15 minutes at 400°F
Then reduce to 350°F (175°C) and bake another 15–20 minutes

Do NOT open the oven door during the first 20 minutes. The trapped steam is what helps them rise.

They are ready when:

Deep golden brown
Firm to the touch
Lightweight

Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let them sit inside for 5–10 minutes to dry out.

Transfer to a cooling rack and allow them to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Filling

In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.

Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, but do not overwhip.

The cream should be:

Smooth
Thick
Able to hold its shape

Step 7: Fill the Cream Puffs

There are two popular methods:

Method 1: Slice and Fill

Cut each puff in half horizontally and spoon or pipe the whipped cream inside. Replace the top.

Method 2: Inject the Filling

Use a piping bag with a narrow tip. Insert it into the bottom of each puff and gently squeeze until filled.

The puff should feel heavier once filled.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Dust with powdered sugar for a classic look or drizzle melted chocolate over the tops for extra indulgence.

Serve immediately for best texture. If storing:

Keep unfilled shells at room temperature for 1 day
Refrigerate filled cream puffs up to 24 hours

Pro Tips for Perfect Cream Puffs

✔ Measure ingredients accurately
✔ Use room-temperature eggs
✔ Don’t rush the stovetop cooking step
✔ Bake until fully golden to avoid collapse
✔ Cool completely before filling

Delicious Variations

Once you master the classic version, try:

Chocolate pastry cream filling
Vanilla custard
Coffee-flavored whipped cream
Ice cream for profiteroles
Savory versions with cheese or herbed cream

Why These Cream Puffs Are Famous

They’re famous because they combine simplicity with elegance. Just a few pantry staples transform into airy pastry shells that feel bakery-worthy. Their delicate crisp exterior and cloud-like filling make them suitable for everything from family gatherings to formal celebrations.

Making cream puffs is not just baking — it’s learning a timeless technique that opens the door to éclairs, profiteroles, and even savory gougères.

Once you try them homemade, you’ll never look at store-bought the same way again.

Light. Airy. Creamy. Truly unforgettable.